Netflix is moving forward with a sequel to one of its most successful action movies. The streaming platform has officially started production on the follow-up to Ad Vitam, the French-language action film that became a global hit in early 2025.
The sequel, currently titled Ad Vitam Eternam, began principal photography on August 10, 2026. This marks a major step for Netflix in expanding its action movie library with international productions that have proven their worth on the platform.
Original Ad Vitam Became a Global Phenomenon
The first Ad Vitam movie arrived on Netflix on January 10, 2025. What started as a French-language action film quickly turned into one of the platform’s biggest successes of the year.
The movie climbed the global charts rapidly. As of current data, Ad Vitam holds the Number 9 position among the most-watched non-English language movies of all time on Netflix. The film accumulated 103 million hours watched across 63.1 million views.
These numbers put it among the most popular action movies ever released on the streaming service. The success made a sequel almost inevitable, and Netflix has now confirmed that production is underway.
Guillaume Canet Returns as Franck Lazareff
Guillaume Canet reprises his role as Franck Lazareff, the former GIGN operator who was the central character of the first film. Canet also co-wrote the screenplay for the sequel alongside writers Maxime Chattam and David Corona.
The first movie ended with Franck in prison. The sequel picks up after his release, only for him to face an assassination attempt. This attack forces him to go into hiding with his family in the mountains.
French intelligence services eventually track him down. They offer him a deal that he cannot refuse. Franck will take on a covert mission in exchange for the truth about who wants him dead and why.
New Director Takes Over for Sequel
The sequel brings a change behind the camera. Ludovic Colbeau-Justin takes over as director, replacing Rodolphe Lauga who helmed the original. Colbeau-Justin is known for his work on How To Make A Killing.
This creative shift means the sequel will have a different approach while maintaining the essence of the original. The change in director could bring fresh energy to the action sequences and storytelling style.
Returning Cast and New Additions
Several cast members from the first Ad Vitam movie are returning for the sequel. Stéphane Caillard reprises her role as Léo. Nassim Lyes returns as Ben. Zita Hanrot is back as Manon.
The sequel also adds some impressive new names to the cast. Nicolas Duvauchelle, Sophie Marceau, and Mathieu Amalric have joined the production. Their roles are currently undisclosed, adding an element of mystery to the sequel.
Sophie Marceau is a well-known French actress with international recognition. Her addition to the cast signals that Netflix is investing heavily in the sequel’s production value.
Production Locations Across France
The sequel is being shot across multiple regions in France. The production team has chosen diverse locations including Ile-de-France, Normandy, Savoie, and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur.
These locations suggest a larger scale for the sequel compared to the first film. The variety of settings could mean more action sequences in different environments and a broader scope for Franck’s story.
Canet and Jean Cottin are producing through their company Cabanes Productions. The production team is working to deliver a follow-up that matches or exceeds the success of the original.
What to Expect From Ad Vitam Eternam
The official synopsis provides a clear picture of what the sequel will cover. After surviving an assassination attempt upon his release from prison, Franck goes into hiding with his family in the mountains.
French intelligence services track him down and offer him a deal. He will carry out a covert mission in exchange for the truth about who is trying to kill him. This setup creates a strong narrative foundation for the action sequences that fans of the first movie expect.
The mission details remain under wraps for now. But the involvement of French intelligence adds a layer of political intrigue to the story. Franck’s skills as a former GIGN operator will likely be put to the test in new and challenging ways.
Critical Reception and Audience Response
The first Ad Vitam movie received mixed reviews from critics. It currently holds a 38% rating on Rotten Tomatoes from critics. Audience scores were also low, with a 32% approval rating.
Despite the critical reception, the movie found massive success with global audiences. The viewership numbers prove that action fans connected with the film regardless of critical opinion. This pattern is not uncommon for action movies, where entertainment value often outweighs critical praise.
The sequel faces the challenge of improving on the original while maintaining what made it popular. The creative team appears focused on expanding the story and raising the stakes for the main character.
Netflix Continues Investment in Action Content
The Ad Vitam sequel shows Netflix’s commitment to action movies, particularly international productions. The platform has found success with action titles like the Extraction movies and various standalone releases.
War Machine starring Alan Ritchson is another example of Netflix’s recent action offerings. These films have helped establish Netflix as a destination for action content alongside its other genres.
The Ad Vitam sequel indicates that Netflix sees value in continuing stories that have proven popular with subscribers. The platform is willing to invest in sequels for international films that perform well globally.
Production Timeline and Release Expectations
Principal photography began on August 10, 2026. This means the sequel is in the early stages of production. Filming across multiple French locations will take several months to complete.
Post-production will follow, including editing, visual effects, and sound design. Netflix has not announced a release date for Ad Vitam Eternam yet. However, based on typical production timelines, a 2027 release appears likely.
The sequel’s production represents a significant commitment from Netflix. The involvement of established French actors and the variety of filming locations point to a substantial budget for the project.
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What Made Ad Vitam Successful
The first Ad Vitam movie combined several elements that resonated with global audiences. The action sequences were well-executed. The lead performance by Guillaume Canet brought depth to the character of Franck Lazareff.
The story of a former special forces operator dealing with personal and professional challenges has broad appeal. The conspiracy elements and government involvement added intrigue beyond the action sequences.
The success of Ad Vitam shows that international action movies can find large audiences on streaming platforms. Language barriers matter less when the action and storytelling connect with viewers.
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